Best backpacks for 2026
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
The North Face Borealis is our top pick for 2026 – it balances comfort, durability, and organization for nearly any daily load.
If you need to save money, the SwissGear 1900 Scansmart delivers surprising features for its price; the JanSport SuperBreak is the classic lightweight choice for minimalists, and the Osprey Daylite Plus is the travel-friendly option that doubles as a daypack.
A great backpack is one of those purchases you use every single day, so getting the right one matters more than most people realize. Whether you’re hauling a laptop to the office, packing textbooks for class, or squeezing in a quick trip, the bag on your back needs to be comfortable, organized, and durable enough to survive daily abuse. The key is to match the bag to your actual routine. Look for padded laptop sleeves if you carry a computer, consider water bottle pockets if you’re always hydrating, and pay close attention to strap and back padding if you walk or commute long distances. The five bags below cover the most common needs – from bare-bones school packs to feature-loaded travel companions – without the fluff you don’t need.
SwissGear 1900 Scansmart Laptop Backpack
the budget laptop backpack that punches above its weight
4.3out of 5A surprisingly well-built budget bag with a dedicated laptop compartment and plenty of pockets. It won’t win any fashion awards, but for the price it’s hard to beat as a workhorse school or office pack.
Price range: $
Check price on Amazon →JanSport SuperBreak Backpack
the iconic lightweight everyday carry
4.2out of 5A timeless, no-frills backpack that’s best for light loads. It’s comfortable for a few books and a lunch, but it lacks a padded laptop sleeve, so it’s not ideal for computer users.
Price range: $
Check price on Amazon →The North Face Borealis Backpack
the do-it-all default for daily commuters
4.7out of 5The Borealis has earned its reputation as a near-perfect everyday backpack: comfortable, durable, and just organized enough. It handles a laptop, books, gym gear, and even light trail use without breaking a sweat.
Price range: $$$
Check price on Amazon →| Award | Model | Our score | Price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall | SwissGear 1900 Scansmart Laptop Backpack | 4.3 / 5 | $ | Students and professionals who need a reliable laptop backpack on a tight budget. | Check price → |
| Runner-up | JanSport SuperBreak Backpack | 4.2 / 5 | $ | Minimalists, students with light textbooks, and anyone who wants a simple, affordable day | Check price → |
| Best value | The North Face Borealis Backpack | 4.7 / 5 | $$$ | Commuters and day hikers who want one bag that works for both office and trail. | Check price → |
| Best for travel | Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack | 4.5 / 5 | $$ | Travelers who need a light daypack that can fit under a seat and double as a hike bag. | Check price → |
| Best premium | Thule Subterra 34L Laptop Backpack | 4.6 / 5 | $$$$ | Professionals who travel often and want one bag for work and short trips. | Check price → |
The picks in detail
1. SwissGear 1900 Scansmart Laptop Backpack: the budget laptop backpack that punches above its weight
Best overallA surprisingly well-built budget bag with a dedicated laptop compartment and plenty of pockets. It won’t win any fashion awards, but for the price it’s hard to beat as a workhorse school or office pack.
Pros
- Padded laptop sleeve fits most laptops
- Many organizing pockets for cables and accessories
- Durable polyester fabric resists scuffs
- Very affordable for the feature set
Cons
- Straps are adequately padded but not plush for heavy loads
- Back panel lacks ventilation
- Design is utilitarian and not very stylish
Who it’s for
Students and professionals who need a reliable laptop backpack on a tight budget.Who should skip it
You prioritize sleek looks or want a bag that can double as a hiking daypack.2. JanSport SuperBreak Backpack: the iconic lightweight everyday carry
Runner-upA timeless, no-frills backpack that’s best for light loads. It’s comfortable for a few books and a lunch, but it lacks a padded laptop sleeve, so it’s not ideal for computer users.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and easy to carry empty
- Classic styling available in dozens of colors
- Main compartment opens wide for easy packing
- Very low price point
Cons
- No padded laptop compartment or tablet sleeve
- Thin straps can dig in with heavier loads
- Minimal organization – just one main pocket and a front zip
Who it’s for
Minimalists, students with light textbooks, and anyone who wants a simple, affordable day bag.Who should skip it
You carry a laptop or tablet regularly, or you need structured back support.3. The North Face Borealis Backpack: the do-it-all default for daily commuters
Best valueThe Borealis has earned its reputation as a near-perfect everyday backpack: comfortable, durable, and just organized enough. It handles a laptop, books, gym gear, and even light trail use without breaking a sweat.
Pros
- FlexVent suspension system provides excellent back support and airflow
- Padded laptop compartment plus a fleece-lined tablet sleeve
- Two large water bottle pockets that actually hold bottles
- DA (Durable Antifray) fabric withstands years of use
Cons
- Main compartment lacks internal organization; you’ll need pouches
- Design is popular but a bit plain for some tastes
- Can feel a little small for heavy travel or weekend trips
Who it’s for
Commuters and day hikers who want one bag that works for both office and trail.Who should skip it
You need a full travel backpack with packing cubes or a bag that can hold a change of clothes for a weekend.4. Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack: the compact travel companion that punches above its size
Best for travelA well-made, lightweight pack that shines as a personal item on flights or a daypack on hikes. The laptop sleeve is thin but functional, and the cinch strap system keeps loads stable. Its biggest limitation is capacity – it’s not a full travel pack.
Pros
- Top-loading design with a cinch strap keeps gear secure
- Includes a hydration sleeve (can double as a tablet pocket)
- AirScape backpanel offers solid ventilation
- Attaches to larger Osprey travel packs as a daypack
Cons
- Main compartment is small for textbooks or a full-grocery run
- Laptop sleeve is not heavily padded; use a sleeve for protection
- Waist strap is simple webbing without pockets
Who it’s for
Travelers who need a light daypack that can fit under a seat and double as a hike bag.Who should skip it
You carry a heavy laptop or need a bag for school with lots of organization.5. Thule Subterra 34L Laptop Backpack: the premium work-and-travel hybrid
Best premiumA sleek, high-capacity backpack that transitions from boardroom to airport smoothly. The 34-liter volume accommodates a weekend’s worth of clothes plus a laptop, and the clamshell opening makes packing a dream. The price is steep, but the build quality and smart details justify it.
Pros
- Clamshell opening allows easy packing like a suitcase
- Dedicated, well-padded laptop compartment with a tool-roll organiser
- Padded shoulder straps and back panel provide all-day comfort
- Suspenders keep the bag flush against your back when full
Cons
- Price is genuinely high for a backpack
- Exterior is prone to showing dust and scratches on dark colors
- Can be overkill for daily office carry; a smaller version might be better
Who it’s for
Professionals who travel often and want one bag for work and short trips.Who should skip it
You’re on a tight budget or you only carry a light load to and from the office.Best for specific needs
Best for students on a budget
If the cost of a backpack matters as much as its function, the SwissGear 1900 Scansmart is the clear choice. It offers a padded laptop sleeve, a decent number of pockets, and enough durability to survive a semester or two. It’s not the most comfortable under a heavy load of textbooks, but for the price, it’s a smart purchase. Our pick: SwissGear 1900 Scansmart Laptop Backpack.
Best for daily commuters with gear
The North Face Borealis is the all-around champion for anyone who carries a laptop, lunch, gym clothes, and maybe a water bottle to work every day. Its suspension system keeps the weight off your shoulders, and the two roomy water bottle pockets are rare at this level of comfort. Our pick: The North Face Borealis Backpack.
Best for frequent flyers
The Thule Subterra 34L is built for travel. Its clamshell opening and padded laptop compartment let you pack like a suitcase, and it fits comfortably under an airplane seat when not overstuffed. The premium price is worth it if you’re on the road every other week. Our pick: Thule Subterra 34L Laptop Backpack.
Our verdict
Your perfect backpack really comes down to how you use it every day. If you need one bag that can handle a commute and a short trail, go with the North Face Borealis. For strict budget buyers, the SwissGear 1900 is unbeatable. Travelers will get the most out of the Thule Subterra, while the Osprey Daylite Plus is a fantastic lightweight option for day trips. And if you just want a simple, classic school bag, the JanSport SuperBreak still holds up. Pick the one that matches your routine, and you’ll be happy with it for years.